Couple watching TV
Step one – Have a money-free weekend. That means no running out to buy anything – not even a pint of milk. Amuse yourself with traditional activities using classic board games such as Monopoly or Scrabble, or if you fancy some more contemporary amusements download some free podcasts from iTunes or the BBC, where there are a great selection of radio shows and plays.
If you feel the need to go out, check out the local library for a list of free local activities and events. And if the money-free weekend works well, why not hold one once a month?
Step two - Slash DVD costs. DVDs are great home entertainment and online rental services are so convenient. Sign up, build a wish-list of titles and when they become available, the rental company posts them out. After watching, simply post them back in pre-paid envelopes.
Rental companies are so keen for custom that nearly all of them offer free trials, meaning those that are organised could get months of free movies. Simply sign up, grab the free trial, then cancel it when the free period is over and move on the next one.
Websites such as www.blockbuster.co.uk, www.postadvd.com and www.CDwow.com all offer free periods.
Remember though – this only works if you are organised enough to cancel the service at the end of the trial. Otherwise you will be left with multiple direct debits.
Step three - Clear out your media collection. Update your DVD, CD or book collection using online swap services such as www.swapz.co.uk or www.swapitshop.com, getting rid of the stuff you don't watch and exchanging it for something you might enjoy.
Alternatively, consider swapping with friends. Kick-start the process by holding a ‘film festival’ at home and asking guests to bring along DVDs.
Step four - Watch smart. A colour TV licence costs £139.50 (black and white £47) and everyone has to have one if they use their TV. There are a few ways to cut the fee though. Firstly, don't pay by quarterly direct debit, it will cost a premium of £1.25 a quarter.
People over 75 get a free licence and 74 year olds are entitled to a Short Term TV Licence, which will cover them until they reach 75.
People in residential homes may benefit from the Accommodation or Residential Care Concessionary Licence scheme, if the home qualifies, which offers the over 60s or disabled a licence for £7.50 a year.
Although a licence is needed for a second home, if the other residence is a static caravan and the TV won't be used at the same time as in the main home, no licence is required.